Newsletter Archive
THE BEST FRIEND NEWSLETTERS
January 1967 to 1999
Copies are available through www.bfoc1830@yahoo.com.
DATE CONTENTS
1967
Charter Ceremony on May 20, 1967.
Copy of Charter.
“The Cradle of Railroading”.
January Welcome.
First Board of Trustees.
Display of relics:
100 yr old locomotive bell
American Flag draped over FDR train
Original rail from Chas-Hamburg Railroad
Whistle from narrow gauge logging
Early steam pressure gauge
Working patent model of couplings
Coach markers and lamps.
February Charter members:
Mendel Rivers Ernest Hollings.
Antique coach owned by ACL to be restored.
Conductor’s caps donated by A Jones.
March Mayor J. Palmer Gaillard is 100th member.
Gov Robt McNair is 150th member.
Southern donated stainless steel coach.
April Membership Roster.
May Pullman Car Bizet donated.
204 members.
June Bizet is member of Opera Series of Pullmans.
July The LeCatos become new members.
Letter from Sgt. TR Carroll, USMC, asking for info about Hunley for book.
August
September
October
November CCNRHS is youngest and second largest chapter in US.
A.Langley Railroad artifacts from steam era described.
December “Porter” engine gets new brake system.
1968
January Old Union Station clock moved.
February
March “Railroad Slanguage”.
April Book on railway maintenance, 1926, donated.
Crossing tenders hand “stop” sign donated by C. Montgomery.
Southern Railway No. 630 in Chapter excursion.
May C&MW No. 1 has steam dome shroud painted ”Southern Passenger En Green”
Stainless steel coach, “South Carolina”.
No. 800 being repaired.
“Two Days Behind a 2-8-0”.
June
July
August Baggage car no. 6450 rewired.
Chapter given 5 – 40 seat coaches:
No. 1052 Charleston No. 1063 Aiken
No. 1054 Summerville No. 1090 Hamburg
No. 1062 Branchville (towns along 1830 Best Friend route).
September Southern Railway donated to Chapter:
1 Baggage Car 1 Heavy Weight Coach with a/c
1 RPO Car 1 Light “ “ “ “Bristol” a/c.
Central of Ga donated:
Antique “Jordan” Spreader Steam Derrick – 50-ton capacity.
3 generations of Norrises rode Azalea Special No. 2 out of Chas-Branchville.
October
November 22 foot trailer built to resemble red caboose for $2750.
Robt Kennedy casket was transported in only car his brother, Jack, used while President.
Ray Kroc of McDonalds paid $63,000 for a 43-year-old Pullman.
Scale model of “BF” built for ChasMuseum.
December Picture of “BF”.
1969
January
February
March
April Roster
May L. Jones donated conductor caps and switch key.
Down payment of $500 made on Engine No. 44, leaving balance of $14,500.
$1000 donated for chairs for the diner.
June
July
August
September
October
November “Spirit of St Louis” passengers lie on tracks until a/c repaired.
December
1970
January
February
March
Apri
May
June
July
August Museum reopened.
September
Octo ber
November
December
1971
January
February
March
April Photos of Nelson family, HA Martin, Breck pegram, Marshall Elting, David Alvarado, Jack Gately, Carl Lehman
May
June Photo of Augusta GA Union Station in 1968, last day of operation
July Photo of Denmark Stations
August
September Honeymoon story by author, H.
October No 44 Placed bronze plaque on engineer’s side as dedication to L. Carrington Coleman.
November
December
1972
January Photos of RR Stations…Harvin, Alcolu, Mullins, Savannah & Ga, SAL Freight in
Ga Central of Ga, Passenger Shed in Ga.
February
March
April 25, 1972 List of members
May Mr. and Mrs. ID Smith join Chapter.
BF Enginehouse dedicated, with Graham Claytor making dedication speech.
The “One Spot” diner is fired up and a fish fry ensued.
Photo of Manchester Locomotive Works No. 494.
Photo of Vernon Scarborough, “Red” Bennett, Kit Darby and Katie Darby in
dining car No.3157.
Membership roster of April 25, 1972.
Letter to Editor by Le Cato regarding new CharlestonMusic Hall.
June
October
1973
October
November Elloree Depot (ACL) of 1880, now a restaurant.
Le Catos make donation for No. 44 repair.
Aiken House mantel disappears.
1974
December Pullman Car “Bizet”, discussion of Pullman Green color.
January
February Composer, Dovorak, “New World” was rail fan.
H. Truman favorite RR joke.
March Remaining Jordan Spreader parts moved from Seven Mile Yard to storage lot
at SCE&G’s Charlotte Street facility.
Photo of No. 750 Chas Chapter Drum on rear of “LookoutMountain”.
April Photos of Chapter Activities (Kurek, Park, Le Cato, Nelson, Pegram, Rohl).
Photo “BF” at AF Base.
May Photos of Chapter activities.
June News article about S. Spencer, First President of Southern, and death in train
wreck in 1906.
July Name caboose comes from “kabuyse” which means galley (kitchen).
September Photos of stations in Middleton, Ohio in early 1900’s, Landrum, SC,
and Hudson, NY.
Photos of members Kurek, Varner, Pegram, Elting, Scarborough, Le Cato and Nelson.
Dispatcher telephone, telegraph key, ticket stamp acquired.
October Graham County RR near Robbinville, NC to have “Railfan Weekend”.
Photos of Haluk Junction, Ontario and No. 44, Bamburg and Bizet.
November Kids day at Charleston AF Base with “BF” running.
Ex ACL coach and ex SAL RPO car photos.
1975
January
February
March Jordan Spreader is ready for cutting torch.
Lehman reports on trip to Tokyo.
April Movie, “Snow on the Run” shown in diner
May AAR film, “The Right To Compete” (1956) shown.
Record, “People, Trains & Things in Blue Grass”.
Depot has runaway train.
“Liar of the Year Award”…trains huddle together in winter.
June Copy of letter regarding Mr. Little’s funeral in 1891.
July
August
September Editorial about railfans.
Excerpt from “Commissary Instructions” by Pullman Company.
October November is model train month.
November
December
1976
January
February Origin of Savannah and Atlanta Railroads.
Notes on Charleston RR of Civil War by Ken Sexton.
March Chapter receives 4 diesel engines from Cummins Carolina Diesel Co.
List of items needed for maintenance…steam crane, locomotive 44, office car, “Norfolk”,
diner maintenance motor car No. 508, battery changing generator set, concession car, scrap
car, all other cars.
April 1949 message from Charleston to ACL in Wilmington, NC … trouble with 14 cars piled up.
May Notes, records and blue prints obtained by which history of “Norfolk” (once called the
“Charleston”) may be traced.1975.
June
July
August 1853 SCRR car shop bldg saved by Preservation Society of Charleston.
September
October
December American Freedom Train.
1977
January
February
March Southern gave Chapter two rare transfer cabooses:
Cab XC-5 CabXC-6.
Elting family donates 8 place settings of stainless steel flatware.
Watercolor of No. 44 on display at VirginiaBoltonArtGallery.
Story of “Crescent”.
May Chapter hosts Senior Citizen Excursion.
East Cooper Pilot publication remembers Charleston Chapter.
Southern “Crescent” remembered.
1978
January H. Salmons donates Brown Hoist Steam Crane.
February
May
June Amtrak clearance sale…list of cars purchased.
NationalMuseum of Science and Tech in Washington, DC has new locomotive “Olomana”,
Baldwin 1883, built for three gauge in Hawaii.
October
September Chapter sold surplus baggage car No. 355 to B. Frazier.
for use in “End of the Line” retail market on Market Street.
Report on National Convention in Roanoke.
1979
March Transfer caboose XC-5 has new interior.
Max Davis model train collection donated.
September Bell on locomotive No. 44 disappears.
November Washington Convention.
1980
April Chapter given Gulf Oil Vintage 6078 Gal Tank car, WRNX 14520.
November
1982
April
May Savannah Field trip.
Seaboard business car, “Norfolk”, in possession of Charleston Chapter.
1983
November –
December Le Cato elected curator
Dinner in the Diner
1984
August Photo of Chapter’s No. 76 pulling two coaches in Nov’76.
1985
May Chapter and Chas Police Athletic League sponsor steam powered excursion on Southern
Locomotive No. 4501.
1986
January Cmdr Moale railroad memorabilia retrieved from trash by young neighbor.
Photo of No. 44 and No. 1 in 1939.
1987
January/ Photos of Trinidad, Panama, No. 1483 and Toledo Locomotives.
February
April F. Moore asks for assistance in sorting through old RR papers that have accumulated. Pictures of 1940’s cars at either Southern Shops or near old Union Station.
December Chapter Maintenance Equiupment list.
1988
February
March Member contributions recognized.
July Schedule of ticket stamp patterns from 1895 ad.
August Chapter attention shifted to the AnnStreetMuseum now that financial matters
remove possibility of maintaining aging cars.
J. Heard completes Preservation Society and National Trust study of the Ann Street area.
Assistance was furnished by F. Moore and Le Cato.
October AMTRAK Station visited by private cars, “Pocahontas”, and “NewLineValley”.
November Annual meeting.
Chapter invited to attend groundbreaking for VisitorCenter. Gil Baldwin and Frank Moore
recognized for their work.
1989
February Discussion on cost of newsletter.
March A. Pandy shows slides of New Ga RR excursion.
Chapter has copy of handwritten letter from Ezra Miller to Patent Office.
April Publishers, Houghton, Mifflin ask Chapter for photo of “Flying Dutchman”.
May National proposes video library.
June A. McIntosh is presented mug by Post Master in recognition of “BF” contribution to
mail delivery.
F. Manigault shares RR memories.
July Suggestion made for quarterly meeting as social events to include families.
Museum patch collection includes Mt Washington, Western Maryland, Pullman and N&W.
T. Fetters corrects use of SC Canal and Rail Road Company name.
August Aiken House area undergoing renovation – oldest bldg in America, 1808.
Captain shares memories of rail trip to beach in 1924.
September City studies plan for commuter rail to Summerville.
November Museum untouched by Hugo.
December Officers elected
1990
May Two longs, a short and a long on a steam whistle.
Photo of N&W 2-6-6 & R/N 1218 in 1989.
List of railroad nicknames.
Recognition of Black inventors.
June F. Moore donates “The Great Book of Trains”.
Copies of “Reports of the Railroad Commissioners of the State of SC from 1880 to 1936”.
Univ of SC has twenty-two cabooses to be set out at Williams-Brice Stadium for parties.
July Joint meeting with Savannah and Jacksonville at Crossing Restaurant in old Central of Ga train shed.
Chapter looked at ACL wooden coach in private yard in Port Royal.
Visited temporary City Hall in old ACL Station in Ravenel.
August Chapter’s saving account for No.44’s restoration transferred along with train to SCRM.
ChasMuseum featuring toy trains including our 1923 American Flyer train in O gauge tin plate.
V. Roming visited “BF”Museum to prepare a model of the “BF” for SC Museum in Columbia.
September Model train show at Northwoods Mall.
Mrs. J. Scudlark of Delaware donated “Model Railroader” Magazines (1952-1988) belonging to
her late father, Dr. Stewart Le Cato.
Extra Handwritten notes for Feb/Mar’90, Apr/Jul’91, and Jan’96.
October V. Roming donates 188 copies of “Railroad man’s Magazine” (1906-1917) and
“Popular Science” of WWII era…Le Cato critique of magazines.
Ann Street construction discussed with mention of Hugo damage.
SullivanIsland burns playground caboose donated by NRHS due to Hugo.
B. Hainstock announces for President of NRHS.
November extra Ann Street looks like avenue in Beirut with shell holes, earth works and tracked
vehicles moving about.
1915 Moncks Corner Depot sold and moved for reuse as restaurant.
December SC Public Railways Commission to beautify plot of land near old wye at E Bay and
Chapel Streets.
Swiss Federal Railways to add two diners to be operated by McDonalds, golden arches and all.
1991
January Chapter railway diner on lease to Hart County Scenic Railroad until April ’92.
Former CSX Line, The Buckingham Branch Railroad in Va, noted for scenery and
wildlife, carries cyanite, used in space crafts.
R. Andrews to publish book on great train wrecks.
February J. Fisher of CSX tells of vandalism in news article.
Norfolk and Southern Caboose, “End of the Line”, given to JamesSimonsElemSchool on
King Street.
Holly Hill Lumber Co No. 15 sold to M. Buckner in Junction City, Ga.
Le Catos attend ceremony and reception at Soviet Embassy in Washington.
“Crusty old Graham Claytor”!! article.
April Joint meeting with Savannah in converted ACL Pullman No. 5341.
Mention of, as late as 1897, “Blue Line” horse drawn street cars on Broad Street, “Red line”
on Rutledge Ave and “Yellow Line” on Meeting Street.
Le Cato talk at Bishop-Gadsden is attended by Loti Rhett Ball, descendant of
William Aiken…verified that Best Friend frightened his horse and caused death.
Mention of RL Stevenson book, which tells of trans-continental train divided in the
three sections (men, women and children, and Chinamen).
Melfi requested info about LF Melfi who worked on Chas to Summ Train Route, 1903-1928.
“Southern Railway Cook Book and Dining Car Manual” being transcribed by G. Mooneyhan.
May Report on Ann St construction and the thriving generation of pigeon life in the rafters that
has been undiminished by the steam and coal smoke.
Photo of Western Maryland No. 301.
June Opening ceremony of VisitorCenter.
G. Baldwin recognized for his part in arranging donation of “Best Friend”.
Le Cato news article.
Le Cato b’day memories of train adventures.
July Discussion of assets of Chapter.
Chapter acquires “The Official Guide to Railroad Dining Cars in China”.
I. Miller donates collection of postage stamps featuring trains.
Hwy. 52 near Cades, SC has collection of old passenger cars visible off road.
August No. 44 moved to Rion.
I A Athearn obituary.
Captain is given pewter and silver plate with “Best Friend” in Bas Relief for his assistance
with plate…he will display the plate at Museum on occasion.
Father of actor, Robert Mitchum, was a brakeman at Navy Yard in 1919.
September At Cades Crossing, JV Epps collection includes:
L & N Bay window caboose with false cupola added & ACL Coach.
French government expressed gratitude for relief supplies by sending “40×8”. boxcars
to states…SC’s in ClevelandPark in Greenville.
USSR asked NRHS for advise on establishing similar org.
B. Hainstock has color photos of C&WC ten-wheeler.
Photo of 1911 steam locomotive, Southern No. 4501.
Pharmacy in Colbert, Ga in reproduction of turn of century depot.
October Le Cato trip on Queen Anne’s Railroad.
Caveat Emptor…railroad china collectors…article written from “pigeon loft” at 24 Gadsden Street.
December Mention of “Bulldog Express”.
Chapter’s 25th anniversary next year.
December extra AmTrak has bad “news” day.
Christmas and trains and Howard Fogg paintings.
Daddy with Christmas packages.
1992
January Postcard showing battery operated loco, custom built in Gainsville for Franco-American
Gold Mine at Hamby Mtn, circa 1939.
Norfolk Southern to open computer dispatch center in Greenville in 1993.
Letters of congratulations for Le Catos on 25 year anniversary.
February Museum visitor from Royal Navy, R. Humble, has whistle museum in Cornwall,
traded chapter whistle for 5 chime CB&Q whistle.
Visitor, P. Bourassa, Canadian, member of 00 gauge, “Societe Nationale Chemins de Fer
du Quebec”…Le Cato also member.
1881 train wreck with Pres Hayes and wife detailed.
The “Whistle Man” attended Chapter meeting, has BodminSteamWhistleMuseum in England.
Movie, “The Emperor of the North”, with Lee Marvin, E Borgnine and Keith Carradine
is shown… about the best hobo in the land and Shack, a conductor who would rather . . . “kill a man than let him ride for free”.
March O. Winston Link film shown by J. Seebeck.
Our Museum has table full of newsletters from other Chapters.
Le Cato reminisces about 1950’s Turkish railroading as told to him while in Merchant Marines.
April Recount of AmTrak trip from Chas to New Orleans.
Trivia about Royal Train in England.
May Advise on railroad hobby and etiquette on train property.
50th anniversary of Le Catos.
List of collectibles for rail fans.
F. Moore provides historic material for J. Booth’s “Old Union Station”.
June T. Fetters book, “Logging Railroads of SC”, available.
“The Railway Marketplace” has wealth of listings of cabooses, passenger cars, etc. for sale.
July “Carologue”, SC Historical Society Publication, reports on R. Wayner, author of “Car
Names and Consists”, and tells of his search for names of 15 passenger cars with 13 double beds each, built by Pullman in 1930 – “Pringle House”, now the Miles Brewton House at 27 King Street, was one name.
Demolition of Penn Station is discussed.
J. Seebeck tells of steam on the Murphy Branch, 1992.
September Visit to Biltmore via AmTrak 8-87, “Silver Meteor”, recounted.
Col J H Davis obituary.
November #10 National Trust suggests Chapter share rental space.
November #11 A look back at past members.
Chapter begins to catalogue collection.
1993
January 25th year celebration.
Anecdotes about “Carolina Special” and G. Claytor.
February National Trust reorganizes rental space.
Discussion of high-speed rail and Pres Clinton’s promise.
March D. Chapman selling photos of Southern Railway Helper No. 6374 on a grade Salibury Division.
Gil Johnson of NC visits museum and tells of driving “BF” as teenager
Mrs. Lilenthal requests information about 1916 train wreck
May Charleston’s Secret (“Best Friend”).
Bio of Ezra Miller in “Ties” by Le Cato.
June Best Friend is in North Charleston!! …its track in three sections:
Laid with wooden strings, capped with strap iron
“U” rail, first mass produced rail in America
Contemporary rail.
Le Cato addresses 4th grade school class.
Photo of 1880 Ladson Depot.
July Best Friend arrives at Ann Street.
Railroad Commission names new locomotive, “Carroll A. Campbell”.
After 20 years on display, Carrette Steamer, CA 1910, reclaimed by owner.
“Railway Market Place” advertised “Jay Gould” @ $100,000 complete with magnate
daughter’s brass bed.
July 20, 1993 Welcome Back Program for Best Friend.
August/ Best Friend program described.
September G. Baldwin speaks at program on behalf of Chapter.
Museum to be refurbished.
Remains of “Sunbeam Coach” found near LakeThurmond near Parksville in SumterNational
Forest.
October Rail service explored between VisitorCenter and North Charleston.
J. Seebeck writes farewell to Charleston.
November Past President, M. Nelson, visits.
Article in National Railway Bulletin about C&WC with photos.
1994
January G. Claytor retired.
February Discussed agreement between city and Chapter about gift shop.
March Gift shop plans discussed..
April Update on “Sunbeam” in Parksville, SC, being conserved by Dick Parks of Plum Branch.
May B. Hainstock moving to Wisconsin.
June Museum work continues.
July “
August Museum work continues.
September “
October “
November “
December Discussion of “BF” display.
1995
January Discussion of “BF” display.
Visitor’s log recap for Museum.
February Norfolk Southern discontinuing steam excursions.
March Regional meeting in Savannah.
T. Fetters writes on early train accidents.
April Hamburg, after railroad service established, seemed destined for thriving commercial success but Ga. Gov.’s son was killed in this area and town withered.
May/ “Dining on Rails” covering railroad china updated to 1994.
June HO Gauge equipment donated by T. Lowery:
3 Locomotives 17 Cars.
June Special steam town grand opening.
July E. Stringfellow asks for info on rail service on JohnsIsland.
August Work continues on tracks for BF display.
John Smith, former”BF” engineer for 11 years visits Museum.
September Work done on “BF” tracks.
October K. Donaldson builds aluminum smoke stack for “BF”.
November G. Baldwins celebrate 50th wedding anniversary.
List of visitors by state with comments from visitors’ log.
December P. Stabovitz writes about his Maryland/Virginia vacation.
1996
February P. Stabovitz gives details of rails at Navy Yard where 121/2 miles of track have curves of
only 100’ radius.
20 year display, Carrette live steamer, ca. 1910, is reclaimed by owner.
Three British Rosebud Kit Master shelf models displayed, were purchased at St.
Nazaire, France, W. 45th Street in Manhattan and a Beyer Garrett articulated at a drug store on Tu-Do Street in Saigon in 1965.
March Chapter members help SCRM on workday.
Two kudzu covered locomotives shapes discovered at end of tracks, uncovered to reveal a tank engine and a turn of the century Baldwin, also found rusty set of drivers for “BF”.
April Visitors to museum at peak numbers.
May Expedition to SCRM in Winnsboro.
Chapter Porter No. 76 challenges flock of wild turkey on track.
Chapter President, A. McIntosh, introduces Mayor Riley at BF Museum opening.
Photos of opening.
June A. McIntosh tells of ancestor, former Mayor of Richmond, Va, who brought electric cars
into city.
VisitorCenter shows video, “This is Charleston”, credits Charleston Chapter.
Review of book, “The Cat Who Blew the Whistle”, by Lilian Jackson Braun…tells mystery of missing railroad buff who restored his family’s
locomotive for use in dinner rides, mentions famous engineer adventures at throttle of Number Nine.
Ashley House resident donates “Le Train” by C.H. Ellis, with photo of “Best Friend” and “La Big Boy”.
July Discussion of rebuilding of Camden Depot Sheds.
List of six “give aways” that you are a true rail fan.
Spencer shop to move historic Russian Deca Po to indoor storage.
August O. W. Link’s wife imprisons him in basement and takes over marketing of photos…His recording of Big “J” pulling out as chimes of LutheranChurch are heard and “Silent Night” blends with a fading steam whistle… “makes it hard to keep a dry eye”.
October AmTrak trip report, with “Coast Starlight” faring best with hand picked crew and its use
as testing ground for innovations and improvements.
Santa Train at SCRM advertised.
November “Silver Palm” – new Daytime train.
1997
January S. Farbstein of Ashley House donates non-operating models of locomotives that met
at Promontory Point to complete transcontinental railroad.
“Journey” poem by A. McIntosh.
P. Stabovitz writes of 1996 trip to DC and PA .
Plans for web site discussed.
February Video shown of SCRM Christmas display and diner in service.
Mixed train of 1940’s in American OO gauge on loan from J. Le Cato.
M. Hunt finds badge or tag marked N.E.RR. Charleston and Weldon Railroad at old ACL
freight station on E. Bay Street.
March City of CharlestonCamden Shed Proposal.
April Discussion of future development of Camden Sheds.
T. Hemsley, author of “Steam, Steel and Stars” featured in news article.
News article about Mr. St. Laurent of Summerville and railroad pictures and commemorative
stamps.
May Activity at Camden Shed discussed.
June “Whistle Stop Tour” brings train to Charleston, Chapter members attend.
July A. Nieland with CSX tells of modern practices in railroading, including the demise
of picturesque camp cars in 1991…crews now lodge in motels.
A. Knapp joins Chapter.
P. Stabovitz tells of steam locomotives in SC…includes those covered in kudzu at SCRM…also a shay near Remini, SC.
1926 Directory of Port of Charleston gives account of Belt Line Railroad.
Discussion of on-going weather damage to “BF”.
Set of vague drawings received showing Children’s Museum in one shed and “Museum” in other.
Photo of K.C. No.900, Bessemer No. 6251, Missouri Pacific No. 1483 and LeHighValley No. 5126.
August B. McCall uncovers documents relating to Army’s plan to use railroad artillery
to defend East Coast after WWI…documents now stored in National Archives
Rev. A. Eaves donates framed Southern Railway interoffice memo to L. Rodgers, dated 1947.
What is “Bowl” track.
List of surviving steam locomotives in SC.
Best Friend now has web site.
October October 3rd is 164th anniversary of completion of world’s longest railroad in US, the
SC Railroad.
Visit to Spencer, NC Transportation Museum, viewed private cars, “Loretto” and “Doris”.
November P. Stabovitz discusses Horry County Railroad.
J. Le Cato tells of boat trip to identify locomotive sunken in WaccamawRiver…
found four-cylinder engine, possible early Whitcomb This area said to be rich in submerged artifacts.
A. Pandy opens railroad hobby shop on Rivers Avenue.
December Dot Shultz obituary, instrumental in organizing Charleston Chapter.
I.D. Smith presented 25 year NRHS Silver Pin.
Picture of Waccamaw “Mystery Locomotive” sent to T. Fetters.
Visit to Pittsburg Avenue below Navy Base to view monorail track used by Futrex Inc.
1998
January Visitor Center displays Chief Greenberg and Officers’ HO Scale Model.
February Susan Griffin takes charge of gift shop at VisitorCenter.
March D.C. Abbot plans to donate items from Ravenel-Meggett Line.
Post & Courier article gives account of plans for improvement of the Andrews Line (N Chas
through Andrews, Georgetown and on to Mullins).
April Plans for renovation of Moncks Corner Depot.
P. Stabovitz reports on American Orient Express Train at old Chas Naval Base.
May Directors’ meeting of Shed Management .
June Discussion of plans for Camden Shed.
July J. Phillips visits Chapter about new member recruiting.
Discussion of high cost of Camden Project.
Melfi family in Summerville has granite memorial made from stone of old turntable used in
Charleston…passengers helped turn train around.
July R. Vandergrift, civil war reenactor, visits Chapter.
N Charleston expresses interest in “BF”.
A. Smith of Yorkshire, England donates 36 locomotive prints.
Group in Northwest corner of state plan tourist line over Aiken Railroad.
September P. Stabovitz explores N Chas passenger station possibilities.
T. Kurek family remembered as true rail fans.
Berkeley Elec Coop’s, “Living” magazine reports that No. 44 is only existing steam loco
that has never been outside the state.
Efforts made to silence the train whistles within city limits of Winter Park, CO.
September Chapter votes to store “BF” in shed with glass panels to protect from elements.
Chapter provides copies of pictures for use in B&B at Branchville.
T. Fetters advises of new book, “Shay-The Supplement”.
October Problems continue with “BF” and artifacts being exposed to humid air.
P. Shults has father’s papers and mementos.
S. Griffin seeks photo of excavation of original wooden track of SCRR.
November “Charette” of future plans for “BF” to be prepared.
Col. Springs’ memorabilia in RailroadMuseum in Lancaster.
1999
January Items cleared from “BF” car.
O. Convis donates photocopies of 1890’s engineer’s peronnel record.
F. Jackson doing research for German Submariner about rail lines traveled from Boston to
Ft McCain in Grenada, Miss during wartime.
February Delegation meeting to discuss future of Heritage Corridor.
P. Stabovitz makes drawings for “BF” display.
GibbsArt Museum to display OW Link Photos of N&W Steam.
Ezra Miller’s great nephew visits Museum, wants to exchange photocopies of his papers for
some belonging to Chapter.
March OW Link book on sale at Gibbes.
VirginiaTransportationMuseum is selling video of Link at work.
Discussion of Sacramento request for loan of “Best Friend”.
April T. Monnica, Chief Conservator of StateMuseum in Columbia, inspects “BF”
and recommends storage in protected, climate controlled environment.
His report submitted to City Government.
R. Blair donates B/W reproductions of Railroad Equipment Displayed at Columbian Exposition in
Chicago, 1903 – has Rogers built ten-wheeler, plant system No. 100 with tender lettered, “Charleston & Savannah Ry.”
Dr. H. Heins authors book of medical student’s trip from Charleston to PA in 1860’s.
May Chapter discussed display of “BF” Locomotive at Sacramento Rail Fair ’99 and Link exhibit
at Gibbes …Chapter to loan artifacts for exhibit.
Captain J. Risk donates “Timely Railroad Topics” issued by ACL 1929-30.
“BF” to be displayed on curved track on John Street in glass covering.
“Churches on Rails” discussed.
Photo of American Baptist Publication Society Train.
June “BF” goes to California.
Branchville Station and Museum fire discussed.
Engine Nos. rather than Train Nos. now identify trains.
“October Sky” movie features O W Link cameo.
Martin family has mail order business in VA with anything with RR markings
(Southrail Specialties).
July “BF” returns to Ann Street.
August O W Link Gala at Gibbes.
J. Alterman photo presented to Gibbes, night shot of Museum with steam
locomotive passing in front.
“BF” Drum featured in garden at Gibbes.
September E. Hutto video, “The South Carolina Railroad”, available.
Moncks Corner Depot being rebuilt as cultural community center.
R. Prince books, “Atlantis Coast Railroad” and “Seaboard Air Line Railway”,
available through Indiana Univ Press.
Two wooden cottages mysteriously donated to HO scale layout.
October “BF” will have trackage and adequate shelter as part of DiscoveryCenter.
Extensive light rail system and Futrex monorail are receiving attention in
press as solutions to traffic problems.
Hallmark Card Stores stock OO gauge locomotives.
November C. Blum organizes railroad fair at N Chas Armory.
2000
January P. Stabovitz looking for photo of “Fireless Cooker” locomotive.
Charlie, the alligator, one time resident in pond next to Army Depot is missing.
C.Carrere requests information on train wreck in St. George, 1905.
M. Weidle donates copy of “Map and Profile of the Country Between
Charleston and Hamburg with a View to a Proposed Rail-Road” (1828).
February K. Nicholson remembered as only female Chapter President.
Savannah Chapter visits.
J. Le Cato and W. Kennedy visit SpannElemSchool in Summerville.
March Chapter loses space in Aiken House.
ET&WNC Garden Railroad formed by P. Stabovitz.
G. Johnson, who once drove “BF” in Chicago Transportation Show, visits Museum.
April Move of Artifacts continues.
August Charleston County Library to be used for some Chapter meetings.
L. Rubin signs books, “The Bollweevil and the Triple Play”, “Small Craft
Advisory” and “A Memory of Trains”, at Chapter Two Bookstore.
September Chapter to meet at Ashley House.
Camden Tower Project readdressed.
Aiken House to be converted to a Gift Shop.
October Slides, titled, “Steam Around the World”, shown.
A. Langley book, C&WC,” tells of ACL & Central of GA.
2001
January
February Chief Greenberg discusses excursion to Winnsboro in police van.
J. Gilbert book, “South Carolina Railroad Stations”, available.
March Trip to SCRM discussed.
April P. Stabovitz writes account of Chapter trip to SCRM.
Dr. K. Sexton sends Chapter interesting pictures.
May Glass enclosure on John Street for “BF” accepted by Architectural Board.
June P. Stabovitz demonstrates rolling stock from his G gauge Railroad, a
Bachman ten-wheeler.
Mrs. W. Sawyer displays horizontal boiler, built by Stuart Co. in England …
brought to US 25 years ago.
B. Pegram, Past Chapter President, elected to executive post with Lionel Train Club.
NorthAlabamaRailroadMuseum has R. P. O. Car, ca 1920 Southern Coach
and Sleeper, “OcmulgeeRiver” and 1926 Box-cab.
August J. Le Cato tells of childhood near Baltimore and B&O local trains.
“BF” portion of Camden Project to be last constructed.
September J. Le Cato shows 40 year old slides of Turkish Railroad Steam.
A. Pandy invites Chapter to visit “Just Trains” on Rivers Avenue.
November Mrs. Editor takes a tumble . . . Mr. Editor becomes “Second Cook and Baker”.
Story of how name, AMTRAX, became AmTrak.
December Christmas Train, American Flyer electric engine with three Pullman green cars.
City of Charleston Police Train Show has replica of Orient Express at Charleston Place
Hotel.
December O gauge display at Charleston Place.
Transportation shed in Aiken with actors impersonating Wm. Aiken, Ezra Miller.
2002
March Children’s Museum has gala opening.
Recount of US supplies to rebuild French Railroads after WWll.
May Light Rail recommended for Charleston in letter to editor.
2003
July Thanks given to Mrs. Charlotte Humphrey for our use of Ashley House for Chapter meetings.
Captain John Le Cato writes of his need to curtail work as editor.
November P. Stabovitz helps with newsletter by computerizing the system.
Report given on success of three-day success of “BF” display that was done in conjunction with “Best Friend Train Show” of model train.
SCRM planning “Grand Opening”.
December Thanks given to Susan Griffin and her staff for help with display.
P. Stabovitz to index pictures, videos, books and maps relating to the “Best Friend”
into reference index.
Captain Le Cato’s poem, “The Best Friend of Charleston”, is reproduced for all to enjoy.
E-mail address established for Chapter at www.bfoc1830@yahoo.com.
“The Ballad of the Iron Horse”, TV documentary, by John H. Secondi Productions, shows
“BF” under steam.
L. Jaffee has blue grass song about “BF” (1976) – sngwrtr525@cs.com.
2004
January P. Segui and Capt. R. Plunkett become new members.
Construction on shed to begin in June.
February P. Bradley becomes new member … his Depot Diner in Ravenel has train memorabilia.
Plans discussed to recatalogue artifacts and have Rodger Stroup of SC Archives and History
evaluate them.
M. Lehr to check on use of Captain’s poem by “Hootie and the Blowfish”.
2-4-2 engine in PiratelandPark in Myrtle Beach in 1970’s, with markings C&MW, NRHS
CHARLESTON CHAPTER, moved to Cowan Tenn Museum.
Movie, “Station Agent”, recommended to railfans.
Photo of No. 44 following repainting in Feb 2004 at SCRM.
March Mayor forwards letter regarding poem to “Hootie”, recommending it be put to music.
K. Stoudenmire advances to Regional with “BF” Project.
Letter to B. Rainsford advising of our cataloguing of artifacts.
Chapter votes to become member of Soil and Water Conservation District.
Chapter votes to support Ravenel in efforts to establish train museum in depot.
Photo of “BF” on tracks.
April Model trains stored with “BF”, belonging to Le Cato, brought to meeting.
Newsletter which exist are being placed into notebooks.
J. Fisher donates matted photo of ACL Police Dept, 1940.
N. Wilson donates leather bound 1905 book on engineering along with photo of Henry Clay
Baber.
T. Fetter account of railroading adventures in Charleston and at Clemson.
Ravenel Depot toured by Chapter members.
Port Royal Depot now a retail store specializing in sharks .
LastPort Royal train dismantled.
1938 aerial map of St Andrews area donated by B. Kennerty.
T. Fetters assisting in marking old maps.
Members attend Assoc. of Retired Railroad Employees’ meeting.
DOT web site with train wreck investigation reports.
Photo of Ladson Dept, 1880.
May New meeting locations explored.
Library talk about Transcontinental Railroad by Citadel professor.
Chapter votes to donate dining chairs and conductor’s hand punch to SCRM.
June “Best Friend Model Train Show” scheduled in N. Chas, Nov 13-14.
Discussion on artifacts to be donated.
B. Hill, chairman of Ravenel Project, to attend next Chapter meeting.
The book, “Best Friend”, being reprinted in paperback.
Author, G. W. Williams, has been approached by Heritage Corridor and asked to read from book when train is displayed on John Street.
T. Fetters writes about P. Stabovitz for Railfan Magazine.
2001 photo of first train across bridge over Intercoastal Waterway from Myrtle Beach in 14 years … the Carolina Southern No. 100.
July Captain John M. LeCato’s passing is announced.
B. Hill visits Chapter to discuss Ravenel Depot Project.
“BF” addition to shed may be enlarged…College of Charleston may become involved.
Artifacts are preserved on video by P. Stabovitz.
SCRM trip and “back-up incidents” recounted
Newsletters (1967-2004) are being indexed and stored in notebooks.
J. Gold of Gold’s Gym passes away…was a railfan??
“B F Train Show” (model trains) to be held Nov 13-14.
Photo of Two Truck Shay, VictoriaCo. N. 1066.
July Special Edition Dedicated to memory of Captain John M. LeCato (1917-2004).
August Hurricane “Charley” cancels August Chapter meeting.
Chapter to continue meeting at Ashley House.
Johnsons identify BF photo location as Summerville.
“Exotic Dancer” convention/Col. Springs are risqué RR.
Kurt Stoudenmire wins Silver Medal for BF history project.
First Chapter newsletter with full color photo.
CC-NRHS credited for photos of SC Depots in web site, Tsalmon.
SCRM to raise money with sponsors and adoption program.
September Chapter remembers Captain Le Cato.
Donations sent to Liberty Ship John W. Brown.
Maurine Le Cato welcomed as permanent Chapter member.
Private funds to be explored for artifacts’ display.
Newsletters indexed (1967-2004).
Fly family donates 99 Years of Progress, First Locomotive Built for Service.
Photo of the “Deezul”.
October Norfolk Southern contacts Chapter regarding activities with the “BF”.
Photo of Red Hill Station, Conway, SC.
November Meeting not held because of Danny Jones Train Show where we displayed K.
Stoudenmire’s project board.
Lionel trains in bankruptsy.
December Christmas Luncheon held at Lochlear’s Restaurant with good attendance.
“Best Friend” on display with many visitors in joint effort of Children’s Museum and our Chapter
and City of Charleston.
Book, Railroad History on American Postage Stamps by Anthony J. Bianculli,
is reviewed by Chapter. . .”Best Friend” is mentioned with January 15, 183 listed as first
officially scheduled run of the train…contact with author revealed that was the date
according to the SC Historical Society.
2005
January Su Griffin takes over position as project manager for the City of Charleston in the Office of
Economic Development.
Website planned as www.bestfriendofcharleston.org.
Photo of 1947 locomotive crane at Anderson Quarry.
February Discussion of agreement between City of Charleston and Southern Region Industrial Realty,
Inc. for “Best Friend” donation to city.
March SCRM agrees to donation of ACL artifacts to Ravenel.
News photo of Mayor Baldwin with lamp donated by Chapter.
List of Short Line RRs shutting down.
April Plans discussed for Ravenel Presentation at next meeting.
Long time member, H. Lane, is remembered.
Attempt made to locate some boxes of artifacts once stored at 85 Calhoun.
May Meeting held at Ravenel Depot for presentation of ACL artifacts.
Presentation made by M. Lehr to Mayor Baldwin.
June Discussion of how to generate more interesting meetings to encourage attendance.
Discussed having an Activities Coordinator.
Letter from T. Fetters to J. Yates of Citadel regarding old phosphate plants in
Charleston area for new book being written by Fetters.
Photo of “Stockton Terminal” train.
July Art and Pat Giardino asked to serve as “Activities Coordinators”.
Dues to be increased for NRHS membership.
Photo of sports car pulling a small RR car.
August
September New members, B. Hill, F. Moore and J. Wilson were welcomed to the group.
Committee to recommend new officers for the Chapter for December vote.
Copies of “Best Friend” children’s book to be sold by Chapter.
October Meeting held at Carl Blum’s house…exciting multileveled train set-up.
November meeting was a progressive meeting between Best Friend Park and
Danny Jones Model Train Show.
Discussion of “PV Mountain View”…V stands for the layers of varnish applied
to protect the wood …the blunt-ended observation sleeper lounges was built
for PRR’s lastest version of the Broadway Limited.
K. Wood purchased the Mt.View and it now sits behind the USC Stadium and
is destined for Rockton after football season.
Plans for a Port Royal Diner car for the Yemassee trackage discussed.
Photograph of Southern 1596.
November Best Friend Display is a success with over 300 people stopping in to see the train, the children
and the newly discovered blueprints of the train.
Donations flowed freely and pictures were taken of “Friend”ly Faces for our website.
BF’s trip to NYC for Norfolk Southern’s 175th anniversary made the news and headlines.
New members, Tommy Burkhalter, Ben Pogue and Ted Xykellis, are welcomed to the Chapter.
December Christmas luncheon at Locklear’s Restaurant with guest, Craig Myers, editor of TIES
Magazine.
Best Friend model train by Lionel on display.
New officers elected…Mary Lehr, President; Arthur Knapp, VP; Pete Stabovitz, Secretary;
ID Smith, Treasurer; with the appointment of Frank Moore, Historian; Art Giardino, Editor,
Art and Pat Giardino, Activity Chairmen.
2006
January Railfans are called “Foamers” by operating people, Pete Stabovitz recognized
as out-going president.
BF visits NYC.
“Steel Roads and Iron Men” video discussed.
February College of Charleston students visit BF (photo).
Union Pacific assesses charges for use of their name, B. Kennerty donated pictures of
Jahnz and Radium Stations.
March M. Lehr’s visit to Brosnan Forest Retreat discussed.
Chapter visits American Orient Express,
Display set up at Cheraw Festival.
April Scrapbook contributed by I. Shecut.
D. Adams of Beaufort tells of article about BF.
Southern Railway Historical Association visits BF.
M. Lehr presented award at SRHA convention banquet.
May New printer contributed.
Photos of BF dedication in Atlanta in 1929 identified by Pollie Singletary
Article about Gray brother contributed.
Sun Model Co planning “O” gauge model of BF.
June Thanks extended to Ashley House for many years service to Chapter.
BF slated for loan to Norfolk for display in Atlanta Headquarters.
Problem with BF track will need repair before train moved.
Discussion of celebration of Chapter’s 40th anniversary in April 2007.
Grant Whipple remembered.
July Chapter meeting held at The Citadel’s Daniel Library.
Model train display attracts young visitors.
Simpsonville Historical Review editor visits.
Book on JohnsIsland being written by C. Haynie.
BF display until loaned to Norfolk addressed in S. Brennan letter.
C. Young donates scrapbook for Chapter History.
Story of L&W RR by P. Stabovitz.
Tour of CSX planned.
Crews givesACL nickname, “All Cars Leak.”
August BF track needs repair.
CSX tour discussed.
Group photo of tour.
Boy Scout merit badge discussed.
September Chapter scrapbook displayed.
C. Blum to have “Open House”
Wooden model of Best Friend offered to Chapter.
Best Friend display in November discussed.
ABC affiliate contacts Chapter about magazine article.